Crips gang co-founder had his ashes sprinkled in Soweto

The West Side Crips are one of the world’s most notorious street gangs, known for ruling the streets of Los Angeles – and for being intrinsically part of the hip-hop music storyline told by hundreds of artists.

But did you know that the Los Angeles street gang’s cofounder had his ashes sprinkled in Soweto, South Africa as his last wishes?

After Stanley Williams was executed by lethal injection in 2005, his ashes were brought to Southern Africa in accordance with what he wanted.

Here’s more about the person and his story.

ALSO READ: South Korea launches new digital nomad visa

CRIPS CO-FOUNDER STANLEY WILLIAMS

Stanley Williams III was born on 29 December, 1953 – and would become one of the most feared gang leaders on the West Side (Los Angeles) as teenager.

He was soon known as a ruthless fighter, and rose in the ranks of street gangs fast.

ALSO READ: Snoop Dogg at King’s coronation? Rapper would ‘love’ to perform

Eventually, his reputation would make Stanley one of the cofounders of the Crips gang, whose opposition is most famous as the Bloods.

He was arrested for third-degree murder, though would maintain his innocence for these crimes until his death. During the time leading up to his death, celebrities like Snoop Dogg campaigned for a stay of execution – though attempts were unsuccessful.

ALSO READ: Cults: Would you recognize a local CULT?

Stanley was executed by lethal injection on 13 December, 2005 in San Quentin.

CRIPS GANG COFOUNDER HAD HIS ASHES SPRINKLED IN SOWETO: DID YOU KNOW?

The Crips gang cofounder was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and died in San Quentin, California.

ALSO READ: ‘Same Cult’: Die Antwoord’s Yo-Landi Visser about Russell Brand

According to reports, his last wishes were to have his ashes scattered into a lake at Thokoza Park, Soweto, South Africa.

The wish was honoured by his friends Barbara Becnel and Shirley Neal in June, 2006.

WHO ARE THEY?

According to Britannica.com, the Crips are one of the most famed and feared street gangs in the United States – associated with the colour blue,

ALSO READ: Tune in: George Clooney, Snoop Dogg to appear on new SA videocast

Raymond Washington and Stanley Williams founded the group, whose main rivals are considered the Bloods

The name originates from “cribs”, which later became “crips” as the members originally walked around with canes to showcase their status.